What type of apnea is most commonly observed in neonates?

The most commonly observed type of apnea in neonates is mixed apnea. This is primarily because mixed apnea encompasses both central and obstructive components, which frequently occur in infants, especially those who are premature or unwell. In mixed apnea, there is a combination of pauses in breathing due to a lack of respiratory effort (central apnea) and airway obstruction (obstructive apnea).

Neonates, particularly preterm infants, often experience these forms of apnea due to their immature respiratory systems and lack of coordination between breathing and swallowing. This can result in episodes where the infant may temporarily stop breathing due to brain signals not effectively triggering the respiratory muscles, along with potential airway blockages from conditions like mucus build-up or tongue positioning.

Understanding the nuances of mixed apnea is crucial as it aids healthcare providers in developing appropriate interventions and monitoring strategies for these vulnerable infants. Recognizing that this apnea type includes input from both central and obstructive mechanisms underscores its prevalence in the NICU setting.